Warm, sunny weather and longer days are just a couple reasons why summer is considered prime time for motorcycling. However, riding long distances in the summer heat can make bikers much more vulnerable to dehydration and heat-exhaustion – two conditions that can often sneak up on you until you realize what’s actually happening. So, we are here to remind our year-round riders to make sure to pay attention to these warning signs, and to also know proper ways to prepare for summertime riding. Read on to learn a few helpful tips on how to stay cool on your bike to endure the summer heat.

1. Stay Hydrated.

First and foremost, make sure you are staying hydrated! According to medical experts, heat-exhaustion is a “heat-related illness that can occur after you’ve been exposed to high temperatures, and it is often accompanied by dehydration."

When the body begins to run low on fluids, it will begin to lose some of its ability to cool itself through the evaporation of sweat which can easily lead to dehydration. So, it is safe to say that having water handy throughout your entire ride is extremely important for summertime motorcycling. Many bikers often prefer having a hydration backpack handy, so that drinking water is easily accessible and efficient during a longer ride.

A few other common signs of heat stress to be aware of include:

Heavy sweating

Extreme weakness or fatigue

Dizziness

Nausea

Pale or flushed complexion

Fast and shallow breathing

2. Wear full coverage riding apparel.

It is a common misconception that riding during hot summer months means wearing less gear and coverage. Many believe that exposing more skin by wearing less clothing will keep them cool on their bike, which may be true for the short-term, but is in fact a bad riding practice for the long haul. When you think about it, wearing shorts, t-shirts and flip flops just does not make sense when riding a motorcycle for many reasons.

For starters, exposing more skin will put riders more at risk for painful sunburns that cause our bodies to overheat. By continuing to wear full-length gloves, jackets, and pants, along with boots and full-face helmets, riders will be able to protect their skin from sunburn and dehydration. Of course, there are a variety of motorcycle clothing options that are well ventilated so that your comfort is never compromised during your summertime ride.

3. Invest in an evaporative cooling vest.

Speaking of well-ventilated motorcycle clothing, investing in an evaporative cooling vest is a great place to start! While riding in intense heat, airflow alone will not do the job when it comes to keeping your body cool. Evaporative cooling vests will soak up water and release it all over time to help carry away any excess body heat. Especially on those super-hot days, these specially-made vests can be comfortably worn under your riding jacket to keep your core from overheating

4. Take frequent rest breaks

When taking a summertime ride it is best to not wait to stop until the fuel light comes on, which we know can be a challenge especially when enjoying those scenic views. On hot days, you should make it a point to stop more often throughout your ride. This will allow you to drink some more water and also have a light snack to ensure that your body is always fueled properly. No matter if you stop to take off your helmet for a few minutes, walk around to get your blood flowing, or sit down in a shaded area, all of these practices will help keep your body cool and healthy for the rest of the ride ahead.